Leviticus 13:31

31 But if he perceive the place of the spot is equal with the flesh that is near it, and the hair black: he shall shut him up seven days,

Leviticus 13:31 Meaning and Commentary

Leviticus 13:31

And if the priest look on the plague of the scall
As it may appear in another person, brought to him for inspection and examination: and, behold, it [be] not in the sight deeper than the skin;
it do not seem to be got into the flesh, or lower than the skin: and [that there is] no black hair in it;
or, "but no black hair in it"; for, as Jarchi says, if there was a black hair in it, he would be clean, and there would be no need of shutting up; for black hair in scalls is a sign of cleanness, as it is said, ( Leviticus 13:37 ) ; it would be a clear case that such a man had no leprosy on him; for black hair is a token of a strong and healthful constitution; and there could remain no doubt about it, and it would require no further trial and examination: Ben Gersom says it means two black hairs; and further observes, that black hair in the midst of a scall is a sign of cleanness; but this being wanting, then the priest shall shut up [him that hath] the plague of the scall
seven days;
from the time of his viewing the scall; and so Ben Gersom, this is the seventh day from the time of looking upon the scall.

Leviticus 13:31 In-Context

29 If the leprosy break out in the head or the beard of a man or woman, the priest shall see them,
30 And if the place be lower than the other flesh, and the hair yellow, and thinner than usual: he shall declare them unclean, because it is the leprosy of the head and the beard;
31 But if he perceive the place of the spot is equal with the flesh that is near it, and the hair black: he shall shut him up seven days,
32 And on the seventh day he shall look upon it. If the spot be not grown, and the hair keep its colour, and the place of the blemish be even with the other flesh:
33 The man shall be shaven all but the place of the spot: and he shall be shut up other seven days.
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